High Point University reviews

Great interviews, welcoming atmosphere and attitude that vanished the minute I arrived for work on Day 1 - HR staff repeatedly lost paperwork and were unable to answer key questions I had with regard to benefits; the assurance and 'helpful' attitude vanished after my 'new hire tour' - everything felt like a 'con' - a huge show to reel us in - the reality of working at HPU if you are under a certain level is that the "Big Family" atmosphere is a sham. I had fifteen years with an internationally recognized institution of higher learning before HPU began courting me - I walked out after two weeks. I had dismissed the friendly advice of friends and family but have to admit they were correct in their assessment - HPU is a playground for wealthy children who don't want to be too burdened with difficult coursework. The facilities are fabulous and so is the hype. I'm certain there are good, hardworking students and faculty at HPU but my observance of the "Country Club" atmosphere and the treatment of all but the upper echelon staff as 'menials' left an absolutely foul impression. Turnover is unbelievable and with good reason.

Micromanaging deans; unreasonable expectation to pass students who are unable to master course materials; contractual obligation to be on campus 5 days a week; administration values teaching and university service over research and other scholarly activities; criticism of the school, administration or any other aspect of the institution is seen as "insubordination" and individuals who express opinions contrary to the administration will experience reprisals; faculty are expected to follow "customer service" model, attend admissions open houses and are required to be on campus for Saturday scholarship interviews; Faculty pressured to help move freshmen into dorms; FERPA forms allow parents to call faculty whenever they feel like it (I felt more like an elementary school teacher than a professor); President promises parents "we will take care of your children"; salary is below national and state averages across the board; pressure from administration to live in the city of High Point; pressure to contribute to United Way; focus is on retention rather than education.